The Argentine national team will have to fight against the odds during two tough CONMEBOL Qualifiers matchdays, facing two of the most powerful rivals: Uruguay (their first opponent) and Brazil (in another match that represents a regional classic). Unfortunately for Lionel Scaloni, he won't be able to count on several of his best players.

Without Messi and without their best striker

After suffering a muscle injury in his left adductor, Lionel Messi was unable to join the national team, meaning Scaloni already knew he wouldn't be available. However, things worsened as the days passed and the first match of the FIFA window approached.

Recently, Lautaro Martínez, Argentina’s best striker and in excellent form with Inter Miami, was also ruled out for this break.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced that Martínez sustained a "muscle injury in the left hamstring," joining a long list of absentees that already included the captain, Giovani Lo Celso, Gonzalo Montiel, and Paulo Dybala. Previously, Lisandro Martínez and Valentín Carboni had also been sidelined.

Uruguay as the first challenge of the FIFA window

After twelve matches, Argentina leads the qualifiers with 25 points, nearing World Cup qualification, while Uruguay sits in second place with 20 points. The Centenario Stadium in Montevideo will host this challenging match for the reigning world champions.

Both teams are aware that a victory would bring them closer to securing a World Cup spot. With multiple absences on both sides, the starting lineups remain uncertain, adding another layer of unpredictability.

Brazil awaits Argentina

On March 25th, Argentina will face Brazil at the Monumental Stadium. If they manage to secure a win in Montevideo, a second victory could seal their ticket to the 2026 World Cup. Despite playing at home, the match will be challenging.

The big question remains: how difficult will it be for Argentina to perform with so many key players missing? And if they suffer two defeats, what will be the narrative?